Pep Guardiola's final match as Manchester City manager ended in a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium. Ollie Watkins scored twice for Villa, cancelling out Antoine Semenyo's opener for City.
The match was overshadowed by farewells, as Guardiola took charge of City for the 593rd and final time after 10 years and 20 trophies. Long-serving players Bernardo Silva and John Stones also made their last appearances for the club.
City had already secured the Premier League title earlier this season, but hopes of a victorious send-off were dashed after a draw with Bournemouth midweek. The atmosphere remained celebratory, with the newly expanded Pep Guardiola Stand open for the first time and a record crowd of 60,332 in attendance.
Guardiola made several changes, resting key players including Erling Haaland and Rodri. City controlled the first half and took the lead through Semenyo's volley. However, Villa equalised early in the second half when Watkins capitalised on a defensive error, and he added his second with a composed finish.
Silva and Stones were substituted to emotional guards of honour, leaving the field in tears. City pushed for an equaliser, but Phil Foden's late goal was ruled out by VAR. Despite the defeat, the focus remained on celebrating Guardiola's extraordinary legacy at the club.
